Manifesta 16 to Transform Abandoned Churches in Germany's Ruhr Region

The 16th edition of Manifesta, the European Nomadic Biennial, will take place in the Ruhr region of Germany, utilizing abandoned churches as exhibition venues. This unconventional choice aims to revitalize the industrial area by bringing contemporary art to spaces that have lost their original purpose. The biennial, known for its site-specific and socially engaged projects, will invite artists to occupy these 'slipper churches' (églises pantoufles), a term referring to churches that have been deconsecrated and repurposed. The event is scheduled for 2026, as indicated by the source date. The initiative is part of a broader trend of reusing religious heritage sites for cultural purposes, reflecting the region's transformation from an industrial heartland to a cultural hub. The specific artists and curatorial team have not been announced yet, but the project promises to explore themes of memory, loss, and renewal. The choice of venues underscores Manifesta's commitment to engaging with local contexts and addressing contemporary social issues through art.